Last Modified: Wednesday, July 17, 2013 at 11:01 p.m.

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Now, the real work will begin — developing a central listing of resources for youth, including programs and facilities available, then looking for “holes” that need to be filled.

However, on Wednesday at the group’s second meeting, Gadsden Public Library Director Amanda Jackson said when that listing of existing programs is complete, there might not be as many “holes” as some might think.

Jackson said improved communication should help — that getting a complete list of existing programs and facilities was the “best second step,” and the committee could then look at filling gaps.

The group approved a mission statement: “Working together, communicating, mobilizing and empowering the community to develop a path to a successful future for youth in Etowah County.”

The logo is the county’s shape with a green background and “Etowah Youth” in red letters.

The group’s Facebook page is Facebook.com/etowah

youth and the Twitter account is @Etowah Youth or www.twitter.com/etowahyouth.

Joanne Hightower, executive director of the United Way of Etowah County, who acted as the meeting’s facilitator, said a website also is needed and the city of Gadsden will be asked to maintain it.

Jackson said the resource committee will compile programs and services available for youth, with subcommittees identifying programs available in mentoring, arts, sports, after-school care, summer programs, job readiness/technology, faith-based and special events.

She asked that committee members sign up for subcommittees to survey the community, such as churches and different organizations, art and dance teachers and sports organizations, to see what activities are being offered. They then will be asked to submit information, including details about the cost and who the program is for, so it can be included on a website and in other publicity.

Some committee members questioned what was being done for youth this summer with the closing of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Alabama’s Gadsden units, and asked that a list be developed of existing activities for the rest of the summer. John Reed said churches could help provide transportation to existing programs, such as free swimming lessons offered at the city’s Sixth Street Pool.

Surveying students for their input was discussed. A committee was named to develop a survey, and representatives of the school system will be invited to the next meeting to see how it can be involved.

Young people attending the meeting said they wanted programs to “have fun,” and cited activities they liked, including dance, music and playing arcade games.

“We need some all-day activities,” one youth said.

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